Changing the number and type of columns in a view

Hi General,

Is there a reason why it is not possible to redefine a view with a
different number of columns or a different column type?

It's been possible to change the datatypes of a table, and the column
numbers for a long time.  What are the restrictions on making this
possible for views.

I know you can drop an recreate the view, but if the view has dependent
objects it becomes more difficult.

I'm currently running 8.1 when I say it's not possible.

Thanks

Russell Smith